Open Spaces, Large Windows Create Serendipity in Oregon

Designed and built by Jordan Iverson Signature Homes, the Serendipity house, a striking family residence in Eugene, Ore., features a double-height great room bathed in natural light. The focal point of this space, which serves several functions, is an open-flame ethanol fireplace that doubles as a room divider.

Jordan Iverson, the company’s founder, lead designer and general contractor, says the detailed work his company did on the family home started here. The dramatic fireplace — crafted of reflective glass, locally fabricated steel and reclaimed wood from an old barn — draws attention from every corner of the room.

According to Iverson, the kitchen has a 10-foot-long Caesarstone quartz countertop island with a dropped corner section for cooking prep. “I designed the light from scratch,” he says. “(There are) no upper cabinets; a large window looking into the private courtyard adds to the open feel of the space.”

Rustic hickory cabinets with an ebony stain line the lower walls. Above them, a 26-foot-long structural steel I-beam supports the walkway above. “The homeowner had the idea for a pop of color on the sliding-door trim, so we tied in the reading-bench pillow and the custom light centerpiece,” Iverson says.

“There are large windows in the conversation room, which sits near the kitchen, where most people gather while entertaining. Steel elements on the fireplace wall are tied in around the home, both in and out. Flooring is pre-finished oak with hints of gray.

“The sliding barn door on the second story shuts off an exercise space. A loft library high in the trees has a homework desk on the opposite wall for the family’s two young boys, (as well as) custom-built bookshelves and floating shelves by (Eugene-based) Kustom Kraft Cabinets.”